The Cannes Film Festival by Yacht: What to Know Before You Go

Every May, the Côte d’Azur becomes the epicenter of global cinema during the Cannes Film Festival. Celebrities, executives, and press descend on the city, creating one of the busiest weeks on the Riviera. While hotels and event spaces fill quickly, many opt for a more elegant alternative: attending by private yacht.

Whether you’re anchoring offshore or mooring in Port de Cannes, chartering through Navélia Yacht Charter St Tropez offers proximity, privacy, and comfort during the height of festival season. Here's what to know if you're planning to experience Cannes by sea.

1. Dock Space Is Extremely Limited

Demand for marina berths skyrockets during the festival, especially at Port de Cannes.

• Marina slots are often reserved up to 3–4 months in advance.

• Inner berths offer walking access to La Croisette and major screening venues.

• Larger yachts may be directed to anchor offshore with water taxi access.

Tip: If being dockside is essential, confirm availability early. Navélia can assist with paperwork and berth coordination.

2. Yacht Size Affects Accessibility

Port regulations during the festival favor smaller vessels for direct docking.

• 10–35m yachts are more likely to secure central positions.

• Superyachts (35m+) typically anchor just off the coast and rely on tender transfers.

While larger yachts offer more space for entertaining, smaller vessels provide flexibility and closer proximity to the action.

3. Host or Attend Private Events Onboard

Yachts become premium spaces for networking and social gatherings during the festival.

• Private dinners, brand launches, and press interviews often take place onboard.

• A full crew ensures service is seamless, and the backdrop—Cannes from the water—makes for a memorable setting.

• Consider requesting additional staffing or event support for high-profile evenings.

4. Expect High Maritime Activity

The bay becomes crowded during the festival, with increased traffic from tenders, security patrols, and support vessels.

• Allow extra time for transfers between yacht and shore.

• Crew should be familiar with local navigation rules and festival restrictions.

• Provisions and fuel should be arranged before the main event to avoid delays.

Bonus Tip: Arrive One Day Early

Dock congestion peaks on the festival's opening day. Arriving 24 hours early allows your captain and crew to settle in, provision the yacht, and establish shore logistics before the rush begins. It also gives guests a quiet evening aboard before the city comes alive.

Conclusion 

Attending the Cannes Film Festival by yacht isn’t just about arriving in style—it’s about having control over your space, schedule, and experience. With proper planning, your yacht becomes more than just a place to stay—it becomes your private lounge, meeting space, and sanctuary amid one of the world’s busiest cultural events.

Navélia Yacht Charter St Tropez ensures each detail—from dock reservations to crew coordination—is handled discreetly and efficiently. The result: effortless access to the glamour of Cannes, with the Riviera as your backdrop.